Taka Grips: The high-performance grip socks making a difference

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Taka Grips is a high-performance grip socks company based in Sydney, with the overall aim of improving player performance and comfort on the field.

Liam McConaghy, the founder of the business, explained to Soccerscene that his own personal experiences of discomfort on the pitch inspired him to find a viable solution to issues affecting his game.

“It was actually November last year, so not that long ago, we started back at preseason – I play in NPL NSW and I was signed for St George at the time,” he said.

“What happened was we were training on an artificial turf on a Sunday and it was really hot (it was coming into summer) and my feet were just getting torn to shreds.

“There were just the worst blisters and I could feel the friction inside my boot – so I thought to myself I need to find a fix and investigated what all this grip sock business was about.”

He personally never had owned a pair of grip socks, but was left dismayed by the prices he saw online for the item, which prompted him to try and start his own business.

“I got online to buy some and they were $70 a pair,” McConaghy said.

“So, I guess I just had a thought to myself (about creating the business), it just sort of started off as one of those ideas.”

A PE and Design and Technology teacher by trade, McConaghy used his expertise in these areas to devise his product at a much more affordable price of $30.

“I have got a bit of experience and training with graphic design and that sort of thing, so I had a bit of a play around and contacted some suppliers and manufacturers and eventually, one thing led to another.”

The sock itself is made with durable and lightweight material, however its custom grip placement and advanced technology is specifically beneficial for players looking to improve their change of direction, speed, agility and enhance their comfort.

“The socks have got these little grip pads that are basically pressed into the socks through a high-heat glue gun,” McConaghy said.

“I’ve strategically placed them all over the bottom of the sock in places where you would have the most pressure inside your boot. So for example, around the ball of the foot and the back of the heel – I made sure mine came up the back of the foot, so you wouldn’t get that slippage in the back of your boot where a lot of the blisters happen.

“Essentially what happens is you don’t slide around in your boot, so without any friction in your boot you don’t get blisters and it’s better for your movement.”

Taka Grip Socks – White

Although only recently launching the business, the socks have gathered an immediate following and appreciation from professional football players in the A-League and around the world, in leagues such as the J-League.

“I’ve pretty much been playing NPL1 since I was 14 years old, I used to play with the likes of Massimo Luongo and Aaron Mooy,” McConaghy said.

“So, I’ve got old contacts through playing and reached out to a few people and asked if they’d like to wear them, which they were more than happy to and from there more doors have opened.”

Other professional players from different codes including NRL and AFL have also been using the product, with the socks now entering more sports department stores around Australia.

Social media, particularly the company’s Instagram page, has increased the profile of the grip socks to a wider audience, but possible future partnerships with football clubs and state federations across Australia is a logical next step, according to McConaghy.

“While I have thought about expanding into different clothing down the line, firstly it would be good to be able to get some clubs onboard with Taka Grips through a sponsorship, supplying the whole club from juniors through to first grade,” he said.

In the present however, McConaghy is proud of the work he has done so far and how quickly the product has already grown.

“I am very proud, because it sort of just started out of nowhere,” he said.

“I literally just thought let’s give it a crack, apart from some help from my girlfriend I’ve pretty much done it all myself.

“It makes me proud, especially when I look at the calibre of people who are wearing them.”

For more information on Taka Grips visit their website here: https://www.takagrips.com.au/

 

 

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Football QLD to team up with Restore Function Physiotherapy

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Football Queensland announced last week it will be partnering with Restore Function Physiotherapy in a multi-year collaboration.

Elite preparation and performance

By establishing a long-term partnership with a business dedicated to supporting athletes in the region, Football Queensland are showing their commitment to supporting current and future players in their physical preparation.

Furthermore, by ensuring injuries are kept at bay through physiotherapy, strength and conditioning services, Restore Function Physiotherapy will help Football Queensland to keep their most talented players fit and firing throughout the season.

Football Queensland CEO, Robert Cavallucci, expressed his delight at establishing the alliance and what it means for Football Queensland’s football development going forward.

“Our partnership with Restore Function Physiotherapy is a key step in continuing to raise the standard of FQ Academy and State Team programs,” Cavallucci said via press release.

“Restore Function Physiotherapy will deliver a range of services across our boys’ and girls’ pathways, including training and match coverage, injury screening, rehabilitation and high performance support,” he continued.

“The experience everyone at Restore Function Physiotherapy bring from elite sport will help to further professionalise our programs and support the long-term development and wellbeing of Queensland players.”

 

Supporting long-term development

As Football Queensland looks to build a sustainable footballing future across the region, prioritising players’ health will be essential. With training partners like Restore Function Physiotherapy, clubs can help their players become elite athletes, ultimately improving the footballing standards on the pitch.

Restore Function Physiotherapy Owner and Founder, Miranda O’Hara, revealed her pride at having established an alliance with Football QLD for the upcoming season and beyond.

“We’re proud to partner with Football Queensland and support its Academy and State Team players with high quality, evidence-based physiotherapy and high performance programs,” O’Hara said via press release.

“Our role is to work closely with players and staff to deliver injury prevention, rehabilitation and S&C programs that support sustainable high performance and long-term athlete development.”

It is clear that the impact of a partnership between Football QLD and Restore Function Physiotherapy goes far beyond a mere commercial venture. It is an alliance which can help a local business, as well as nurture future talents coming through the Football QLD system.

Ultimately, by providing Queensland players with elite training and support networks, a distinct culture of excellence and professionalism is created before they step onto the pitch.

 

Read more about Restore Function Physiotherapy and the services they provide here.

 

Confirmed Sponsors Across the NPL for 2026

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As NPL clubs across the country continue their pre-season preparations on the pitch, so too have they been forging alliances and partnerships off it. Read here for an updated list of the recently confirmed partnerships across NPL competitions in Australia.

 

NPL VIC

Heidelberg United FC: 

Prime Plastic Bags (recommitted partner) – a high-quality plastic bag manufacturer and supplier based in Reservoir. The partnership between Prime Plastic Bags and Heidelberg United has remained strong since its beginnings 13 years ago.

Destination Unknown RVs (recommitted partner) – Caravan and RV dealer and manufacturer based in Epping. They specialise in designing high-quality and durable vehicles made to elevate the adventure experience for their customers. 

Windsor Management Insurance Brokers (recommitted partner) – A team of experienced insurance professionals based in Carlton, providing exceptional service and building trusted relationships with clients. 

Melbourne City Toyota (recommitted partner) – one of Melbourne’s most iconic Toyota dealerships, boasting locations in Camberwell, Heidelberg, South Melbourne and the CBD. The partnership renewal marks over a decade of collaboration with Heidelberg United FC.

 

Oakleigh Cannons: 

EGA Corporate Advisers – A Melbourne-based team of exceptional financial and corporate advisers, dedicated to offering tailored solutions in accounting, tax, banking, succession planning, property and more. 

 

Bentleigh Greens: 

GIOCA – An apparel and kit supplier created in New South Wales, priding itself on its team of former and current professionals helping to provide high-quality and tailored apparel solutions. GIOCA also announced a partnership with the SD Raiders FC earlier this month. 

Transcorp Removals & Storage – A leading moving and storage company in Melbourne, with roots going back to 1987. They offer same-day services and help with interstate relocations, gaining over 20,000 clients across 35 years of service. 

 

George Cross FC:

DEKA (recommitted partner) – Fitness testing and competition group, offering athletes of all levels the chance to push their limits and achieve their fitness goals.

Vinage Customs (recommitted partner) – Australia’s signage specialists based in Tullamarine. They offer a wide range of services including designing, printing, wrapping, fabricating and installing.

Toni Tenaglia Media (recommitted partner) – Toni Tenaglia is a radio announcer on Melbourne’s Gold 104.3 and Sydney’s Gold 101.7, as well as a podcaster and avid football fan.

Vehicle Compliance Services (recommitted partner) – a registered and approved VASS signatory to VicRoads, ensuring that their clients can drive safely on Australian roads. They help any vehicle modifcations adhere to engineering and safety regulations.

McDonald’s Caroline Springs (recommitted partner) – long-running fast-food restaurant renowned for its burgers and fries.

Glenstock Homes (recommitted partner) – a family-owned business since 1996, Glenstock Homes is dedicated to constructing high-quality homes for its clients.

O’Brien Accountants & Advisors  – a full-service accounting and financial planning firm based in Ivanhoe. Since 1976, its high-quality financial services have been built on values of innovation, collaboration, accountability and respect.

Elvin Lawyers (recommitted partner) – A law firm with locations in Brunswick and Preston, priding itself on a no-nonsense approach and commitment to offering high-quality and transparent services to their clients. 

Gilmores (recommitted partner) – Specialising in distributing quality, industrial packaging and office suppliers across Australia. Based in Port Melbourne and with 30 years of history, they are reknowned for exceptional and affordable service. 

Bostik (recommitted partner) – A global leader in adhesive technologies, Bostik boast operations in over 45 countries with 125 manufacturing sites. At Bostik Australia, they specialise in DIY, construction and industrial adhesives. 

Cemimax (recommitted partner) – Flooring installation experts offering services for industry, health, education, commercial and residential. By balancing cost-effective and environmentally friendly products, Cemimax remain committed to quality services.

RAW Global – International ocean and freight forwarding specialists with offices in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. They offer services in sea freight, air freight, customs clearance and third party logistics. 

28 Mason Cafe & Eatery (recommitted partner) – Based in Newport, 28 Mason Cafe & Eatery are a popular and cosy cafe. They blend strong coffee with delicious food items across both breakfast and lunch. 

 

 

NPL NSW

Rockdale Ilinden FC:

PCFS Logistics – An Australian-owned company created in 2002. They offer services in international and domestic freight, customs clearance, transport, warehousing and logistics.

MiLoan – A company led by industry experts specialising in commercial property, residential property, construction & development and equipment finance. With over $1 billion in loans settled and over 1000 clients assisted, they represent a reliable team who remain committed to supporting local communities. 

Project Cars – A premium car dealership in Western Sydney, combining services in buying, selling, consignment and finance. 

 

NPL Northern NSW:

Belmont Swansea Utd:

Next Level Tree Services (recommitted partner) – A highly-experienced team offering services including tree removal and tree pruning, as well as outdoor property maintenance and bushfire mitigation.

Make Windows + Doors (recommitted partner) – A reliable partner for a multitude of projects and developments. Make Windows + Doors is committed to delivering quality services across residential, commercial and project management projects.

 

Kahibah FC: 

Josie Coffee – The newest club partner of Kahibah FC and their official coffee supplier, Josie Coffee is famous for delicious roasts in Gateshead and Mayfield (NSW).  

Jewells Tavern (recommitted partner) – Returning as a sponsor for the 2026 season, Jewells Tavern is another popular spot for the local community, and was a valuable partner during Kahibah FC’s promotion endeavours last year. 

 

NPL QLD:

Gold Coast United FC:

Fiona Watson Recruitment – A specialist recruitment service founded on the Gold Coast in 2014. They are a trusted and respected recruitment service who specialise in accounting, construction and marketing. They will partner with the 2026 Women’s Program.

Burleigh Brewing – Popular brewery and taphouse who pride themselves on providng expertly crafted beer, made from local products.

Brisbane City

Mainfreight – An international supply chain provider helping businesses move their products across air and ocean, offering solutions in warehousing and transport.

Place Newmarket (recommitted partner) – Delivering premium services in real estate, Place Newmarket is known for professionalism and expertise across buying, selling and managing properties in Brisbane.

 

NPL SA:

Campbell Town City:

Euro Appliances – Established in 2002, Euro Appliances takes pride in providing high-quality products and services for clients seeking stylish, Italian-inspired kitchen appliances.

All Nu Foods – Food service distributors whose fundamental mantra is ‘quality is paramount’. Their team has over 100 years combined of industry experience, and are family-owned in South Australia.

Jarvis Ford – Ford dealership based in Adelaide for over 40 years. They offer state-of-the-art showrooms along with expert after-sales services to give their customers a smooth experience when choosing their new car.

Reality Furniture – Based in Adelaide, Reality Furniture offer bespoke, hand-crafted furniture designs for commercial and residental interiors. 

Tony & Mark’s – A fruit & veg shop with a strong presence in South Australia since 1978. For over 45 years, they have provided locals with the finest produce, including a Service Deli and Cheese Bar.

Piotto By Design – An elegant home and residential property designer, dedicated to balancing excellence and simplicity for its clients.

Climat Air Conditioning & Solar (recommitted partner) – A supplier of home heating and cooling systems, offering a wide selection of leading Australian brands with the latest technology and reliability.

Davroe (recommitted partner) – A hair-product brand which specializes in 100% vegan and Australian-made products.

Carl’s Jr – Fast-food chain specializing in burgers made from 100% Australian meat. 

Chemist King (recommitted partner) – Launched in 2008, Chemist King offers pharmacy, health and beauty products to its customers at affordable prices.

 

NE metrostars:

TJ Goalkeeping – Goalkeeper glove company in Adelaide, owned and operated by former young Socceroos keeper, Anthony Tassie Breaden. They offer affordable products for local interstate players up to A-League professionals.

NPL TAS: 

Launceston City FC:

Automotive IQ – Based in Kingsmeadows, they offer clients services across diagnostics, servicing and repairs for all makes and models.

NPL WA:

Olympic Kingsway:

New Balance/Belgravia Apparel – Belgravia Apparel are a custom apparel supplier based in Australia. With extensive teams across Australia and New Zealand, they have partnered with New Balance since 2020 to supply the Australiasian sports market with high-quality kits and apparel.

Perth Red Star:

First Kick – A childcare sport program provider aiming to create a fun and engaging environment to foster healthy children through football sessions. They cater for young footballers from 2-12 years-old, led by highly-qualified and dedicated coaches.

 

 

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